Mount Vernon: humble beginnings

Mount Vernon is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Baltimore. It was named after George Washington’s home of Mount Vernon, Virginia. Its name is fitting because it is the location of the first monument dedicated to George Washington.

Baltimore’s Washington Monument may not be as large as the one in neighboring DC, but it predates its larger version by 33 years. The cornerstone of Baltimore’s Washington Monument was laid in 1815, and the construction was finished in 1829. DC’s Washington Monument started in 1848 (33 years after the cornerstone was laid in Baltimore’s monument) and was not completed until 1888.

Industrialists rebuilding after the war of 1812 flocked to this fashionable neighborhood. They built the brownstones, mansions, and grand buildings that stand in the neighborhood today.

Mount Vernon: modern marvels

The Mount Vernon neighborhood is marked by varied and delicious cuisine, ranging from Thai to Turkish, from Afghani to New American. There are new sites, such as the newly renovated Hotel Revival and its rooftop bar Topside. There are painstakingly preserved charms such as the Elephant: where the Knapp family mansion’s collection of Waterford crystal, Tiffany glass, and De Forest carvings still decorate its lavish dining rooms and luxe lounge.

Overwhelmed by all the culinary choices and historic sights of Mount Vernon? Not to worry!

See and taste all Mount Vernon has to offer with a Food Tour. Click below and choose Mount Vernon.